Several Beaches in Broward County Closed After Tar Balls Reportedly Wash Ashore
Incident Report
According to Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue, crews received a 911 call about an oily substance in the water near Las Olas Boulevard and the shoreline. The caller was walking on the sand when they noticed the substance on their feet. Ocean Rescue Lifeguards also saw the substance when they started their shifts.
Tar Balls Connected to Oil Spill
The tar balls are mostly likely connected to an oil spill. Several beachgoers reacted to the tar balls that washed up on shore.
Beachgoers’ Accounts
“When we first came down here, there was like weird, black globs on the beach and didn’t really know, I thought it was a sea creature or something, you never know, it’s the ocean, then the lifeguard came down and they’re like, ‘Everybody out of the water, out of the water,’ and we’re like, ‘What’s that for?’ and they’re like, ‘Oh, it’s ’cause of the oil,'” a man said.
Beach Closures
In an abundance of caution, officials closed down beaches for swimmers from Lifeguard Tower 1 in Port Everglades on the south to Lifeguard Tower 10 at Riomar Street. Beaches north in the area remain open but are being monitored.
US Coast Guard Investigation
The U.S. Coast Guard has been notified about the incident and is working with the Department of Environmental Protection to identify a source.
Public Warning
A red flag warning has been posted, urging people to not go into the water.
Effects of the Incident
NBC6 was told that the effects range from Fort Lauderdale to Deerfield Beach.
Conclusion
The closure of several beaches in Broward County serves as a reminder of the importance of environmental responsibility and the potential consequences of oil spills. The investigation is ongoing, and the public is urged to exercise caution when near the affected areas.
FAQs
* What caused the tar balls to wash up on shore?
+ The tar balls are likely connected to an oil spill.
* Which beaches were closed due to the incident?
+ Beaches from Lifeguard Tower 1 in Port Everglades to Lifeguard Tower 10 at Riomar Street were closed.
* Is the water safe for swimming?
+ No, a red flag warning has been posted, urging people to not go into the water.
